5 Hour Energy Side Effects

side effects of drinking 5 hour energy drink everyday

5 Hour Energy has become a popular beverage choice for many individuals, particularly for those who need an energy boost to stay alert and focused. While the occasional consumption of energy drinks may not pose a significant health risk, drinking them daily can have detrimental effects on your body.

The ingredients of 5-hour energy drink include caffeine, taurine, glucuronolactone, malic acid, N-acetyl L-tyrosine, L-phenylalanine, sucralose, citicoline, B-vitamins, and natural and artificial flavors. While some of these ingredients are naturally occurring in the body, the amounts present in energy drinks like 5-hour energy are much higher than what the body would typically produce.

Moreover, the high levels of synthetic caffeine in 5-hour energy (200+ mg) may lead to adverse health effects, including heart palpitations, rapid heart rate, and high blood pressure. The other ingredients, like taurine and glucuronolactone, have not been adequately studied, and their long-term effects on the body are not yet understood.

Here’s what happens to your body when you drink energy drinks every day:

Increased Risk of Heart Disease: Energy drinks contain high levels of synthetic caffeine, which can cause an increase in blood pressure and heart rate. Drinking energy drinks daily can lead to an increased risk of heart disease, including irregular heartbeat and high blood pressure.
Dehydration: Energy drinks can contain high levels of artificial sweeteners (sucralose) along with caffeine, which can lead to dehydration. Dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches, and decreased cognitive function.
Weight Gain: The consumption of artificially sweetened beverages, such as energy drinks, can foster a liking for overly sweet flavors, reducing the desire for healthier alternatives naturally sweetened and possibly leading to an unbalanced diet and weight gain. The artificial sweetener sucralose has been linked to Type 2 diabetes by a British Medical Journal study.
Tooth Decay: Energy drinks contain high levels of acid and artificial sweeteners, which can erode tooth enamel and lead to tooth decay. Drinking them every day can lead to long-term dental problems.
Insomnia: Energy drinks contain high levels of synthetic caffeine, which can interfere with sleep patterns. Drinking them every day can lead to insomnia and a lack of restful sleep.
Addiction: Energy drinks can be addictive due to their high levels of synthetic caffeine and artificial sweeteners. Drinking them every day can lead to dependency and withdrawal symptoms if consumption is stopped suddenly.
Headaches: When we drink energy drinks the synthetic caffeine causes the blood vessels in the brain to constrict. When you stop the caffeine intake, the blood vessels in the brain dilate. This increases the blood flow and can trigger a headache.

5 hour Energy Side Effects On Your Kidneys

Consuming energy drinks can have adverse effects on the kidneys. The high levels of caffeine present in these drinks can increase the workload of the kidneys, leading to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. The caffeine can also cause constriction of the blood vessels in the kidneys, which can reduce blood flow to the kidneys and cause damage over time. Additionally, energy drinks contain high levels of artificial sweeteners (sucralose), which may contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes, a risk factor for kidney disease. Therefore, it is essential to limit the consumption of energy drinks and ensure adequate hydration to protect the health of your kidneys.

NATURAL VS. SYNTHETIC CAFFEINE

Is 5 Hour Energy Bad For You: Natural caffeine, derived from plants such as cacao, guarana berries, and yerba mate, comes with a combination of vitamins and methylxanthines. These compounds work together to ensure a gradual and steady release of caffeine in the body. As a result, the energy boost provided lasts longer, enhancing mental clarity and focus.

Unlike synthetic caffeine, commonly found in energy drinks like 5 Hour Energy drink, the slow release of caffeine from natural sources can help minimize jitters and crashes. In contrast to synthetic caffeine, which may cause restlessness, sleep disturbances, and a flushed complexion, natural caffeine does not have these adverse effects. Moreover, natural caffeine possesses special antioxidant properties that could contribute to the prevention of heart disease and Alzheimer's. While synthetic caffeine, often obtained from Chinese pharmaceutical plants, delivers immediate energy but leads to a quicker crash, natural caffeine provides sustained energy for an extended period.

Artificial INGREDIENTS & Natural flavors

Sucralose, an artificial sweetener found in 5 Hour Energy, raises concerns due to its association with various health issues, including gut bacteria disruption, increased appetite, weight gain, and potential negative impacts on blood sugar regulation. It may trigger an insulin response in the body, potentially leading to insulin resistance over time and an increased risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Moreover, consuming artificially sweetened drinks can create a preference for excessively sweet flavors, reducing the inclination for healthier, naturally sweetened alternatives and resulting in an imbalanced diet.

Additionally, artificial sweeteners have the capacity to disturb gut microbiota, impacting overall gut health and digestion. Therefore, exercising caution when consuming products containing synthetic additives and artificial sweeteners, such as those in 5 Hour Energy Drink, is crucial. It is important to understand the potential health effects and explore alternative options for the sake of overall well-being.

The inclusion of "natural flavors" in the ingredients of 5-hour energy has raised concerns, emphasizing the need for awareness regarding the potential side effects associated with this vague and potentially misleading term. While the term implies that the flavors are derived from natural sources, it lacks specific information about the ingredients and manufacturing process involved. The FDA defines natural flavors as substances derived from plant or animal matter but allows for the use of various synthetic processes and chemicals during production. This lack of transparency surrounding natural flavors raises concerns as it can obscure the use of artificial or chemically modified ingredients. In the case of 5-hour energy, a "natural flavor" could be created using high heat or chemicals, deviating from consumers' perception of what is truly natural.

Furthermore, some natural flavors may originate from ingredients that are not safe for consumption in their natural form, such as specific essential oils or chemical extracts. While regulatory agencies generally consider natural flavors to be safe, individuals may still experience adverse reactions or allergies to these ingredients. To prioritize their well-being, consumers should be diligent in understanding the contents of what they consume and carefully scrutinize labels and ingredient lists before purchasing or consuming products that contain natural flavors. The presence of natural flavors in products like 5-hour Energy Drink underscores the importance of increased transparency and accountability in the food and beverage industry. Consumers have the right to know precisely what they are consuming, and companies should be held to higher standards regarding the quality and safety of their products.

Healthy Alternatives To 5 hour Energy Drink

If you are looking for a healthy alternative to 5 Hour Energy Shots, filtered water is an excellent choice. Not only does it hydrate your body and keep you alert and focused, but it also helps remove contaminants from your drinking water.

Filtered water is free from harmful chemicals, pollutants, and toxins that can be found in unfiltered tap water. It also has a clean, refreshing taste that can satisfy your thirst without the need for added sugars or flavors.

In addition to filtered water, there are several other healthy alternatives to energy drinks for adults:

Green Tea: Green tea made with filtered water is a natural source of caffeine and antioxidants. It can boost energy levels and improve mental alertness without the negative side effects of energy drinks.
Fresh Fruit Juice: Fresh fruit juice (from a juicer) is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It can provide a natural energy boost and help reduce inflammation in the body.
Coconut Water: Coconut water is a natural source of electrolytes, which can help rehydrate your body and boost energy levels. It also contains potassium and magnesium, which can help improve muscle function and prevent cramps.
Herbal Tea: Herbal teas made with filtered water such as chamomile, peppermint, and ginger can provide a calming effect and help reduce stress and anxiety. They also have a variety of health benefits and can boost energy levels without the use of caffeine.
Black Coffee: Black coffee made with filtered water contains caffeine, which stimulates the central nervous system and can increase energy levels. Black coffee is also a low-calorie beverage that can help with weight management, as long as it is consumed in moderation and without added sugar or cream. It could be a good alternative to the highly processed energy drinks on the market today.

What Happens If Kids Drink 5 Hour Energy Drink?

Letting kids drink energy drinks with caffeine can be dangerous for their health. Caffeine is a stimulant that can cause increased heart rate, blood pressure, and anxiety, especially in children whose bodies are still developing.

Additionally, energy drinks often contain high amounts of sugar and other ingredients that can contribute to weight gain and dental problems for children. Furthermore, caffeine can interfere with a child's sleep, which can negatively impact a child's cognitive and emotional development. It's important for parents to monitor their child's caffeine intake and limit their consumption of energy drinks to protect their health and well-being.

5 Hour Energy Ingredients: Energy Blend: Taurine, Glucuronic Aid (as or from Glucuronolactone), Malic Acid, N-Acetyl L-Tyrosine, L-Phenylalanine, Caffeine (230 mg), Citicoline. Other Ingredients: Purified Water, Natural and Artificial Flavors, Sucralose, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate and EDTA (to Protect Freshness).

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Caffeine Per Serving